What I’m Watching: Psych (Mid-Season Finale)

Psych: Season 6, Episode 9 “Neil Simon’s Lover’s Retreat” (B+)

Now here’s an episode that I can really get behind, just in time for the show to go off the air for two months. Shawn taking Juliet to a spa was a chance for them to actually relax, but of course that could never be the case, as evidenced by the opening moments of the episode, which featured guest stars Jason Priestley and Jennifer Finnigan playing dead to rob Tony Hale of his car and possessions. Before their departure, I enjoyed Shawn having Gus read his thoughts and come up with nothing but “Waffles,” and then of course having Shawn pay for everything with Gus’ credit card, which obviously got stolen by the lovebird conners. The truth is, Shawn and Juliet did like spending time with them, epitomized by Shawn’s exclamation of “You guys are horrible people, but so cool!” The ensuing discussion about Juliet’s expectations and adulthood was notable because it seemed like Shawn might be thinking about proposing, which Juliet isn’t necessarily ready for, and I think this show needs to spend more alone time with its couple like in this hour, featuring scenes like the one on the balloon where they were childish together and then started kissing. Back in Santa Barbara, having Gus, Lassiter and Henry hang out and try to get women was a fantastic setup that led to a hilarious and frightening pursuit of Henry by the excitable Chelsea. Giving everyone – minus the notably absent Chief – something to do is always appreciated. This show returns to the airwaves on February 29th.

Season grade so far: B
Season MVP: James Roday as Gus